Tänak holds the lead in Estonia, Neuville drops out

In the lead on Saturday morning, still ahead at the end of the day; the stage was quiet or almost for Ott Tänak (Hyundai). Le porteur du numéro 1 n’a connu aucun passage à vide alors que cette première étape du Rally from Estonia offered a copious menu (146 km on 10 SS).

The Estonian has a brief but sufficient lead over Craig Breen, who is not aiming for the world title due to his role as third driver for Hyundai Motorsport. The Irishman could, however, replace his leader in the event of mechanical damage or driving error, as was the case with their teammate. Thierry Neuville.

The Belgian, then present on the virtual podium, tore the right rear end of his mount when hitting an embankment. Unable to continue this Saturday, he will leave again on Sunday to recover some points in the Power Stage.

“I tried to get the car back but the back went off, explained Thierry Neuville. We knew instantly that the rally was over for us. 

Our title chances are now much slimmer. But let's say that we will not lower our heads and that we look forward to the rallies to come. »

The other entertainer of the day was the youngest competitor in the service park, Kalle Rovanperä (Toyota). The 19-year-old Finn started the day with a scratch time, but saw his race slowed down by a puncture.

Never mind, the son of Harri Rovanperä began an effective comeback from the back of the top 10. Takamoto Katsuta (Toyota), then Elfyn Evans (Toyota) were unable to do anything against the explosive rookie. Sunday, Sébastien Ogier will be in line of sight.

Indeed, the Gapençais spent several seconds slowly but surely throughout the day. The final bouquet was overly optimistic braking and engine stalling in a right-angle turn at the end of the 2nd loop.

« It was not a pleasant afternoon, a avancé l’ancien pilote Citroën, Volkswagen et M-Sport. Just before the last timed sector, we spotted a delaminated tire on the car. »

Tire delaminations, this is the last central element of this step. All the Toyota Gazoo Racing drivers suffered this damage during the effort, as well as Craig Breen's Hyundai. The jumps, worthy of Finland, as well as the heavy stones present on earth as in Turkey or Sardinia form a cocktail that Michelin envelopes hardly appreciate.

General classification after SS11: